Honda has been teasing several redesigns for its lineup of SUVs, including the popular Honda CR-V. We won’t see this new Honda CR-V until the 2023 model year, but some photos have been released that give Honda fans some insight into what is coming.
A Bolder New Look
The compact CR-V is expected to be a little less compact in the future. It won’t graduate to the larger classification but will come with a little more space. What really sticks out is this SUV’s updated front and rear styling.
The CR-V is going to come with a much larger and more aggressive grille along with new headlights and taillights. This new front end with the larger overall size should give the CR-V a demanding presence on the road.
Focus On The Powertrain
Honda is really emphasizing its new hybrid powertrains across its lineup. The CR-V is expected to have one of the most potent hybrid engines to come on the CR-V yet. While hybrid sales only make up about half of the overall sales for this SUV, Honda expects to see that number grow.
The current CR-V hybrid powertrain provides 212 horsepower and an EPA-estimated 38 mpg on the highway. Expectations are high that the next CR-V will surpass those numbers.
There aren’t any expected changes to the current 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine (190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque), although there might be a small improvement in the engine’s output.
There’s no reason to think there will be a change to the current continuously variable automatic transmission with either front or all-wheel drive.
The CR-V Gets Rugged
Honda has promised a more rugged version of the CR-V for a while. This makes many people believe that the Honda CR-V will come with the new TrailSport trim that we’re seeing on other models like the Passport.
Much like the Passport Trailsport, the CR-V trim with this name will most likely have mostly appearance enhancements with adjustments to the drive mode and AWD system. Of course, the Trailsport will also come with better tires. The specifics aren’t available yet, but we can expect something similar.
Here is what comes with the Passport Trailsport:
- All-wheel-drive
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Roof rails
- Heated wiper rest zones (to prevent icing)
- Power-folding side mirrors
- rear side window sunshades
- In-dash navigation
- A 115-volt power outlet
It’s unlikely that the CR-V will mirror all of the features that come with the Passport’s more rugged model, but we should see a few of these kinds of enhancements.
It’s Tough To Wait
It’s always hard to wait until all of the specifics for a new model are released. The recent photos and rumors will have to be enough to tide us over for now. What we do know is that the next Honda CR-V should be the best one yet.
Make sure to keep an eye on your local Honda dealer for more information as it becomes available. You might even consider reserving one of these upgrades compact SUVs before the wait list is too long.
This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning a commission is given should you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no cost to you. All products shown are researched and tested to give an accurate review for you.
